Windows 11 improves the display of Bluetooth devices in the taskbar, with a new interactive battery life overview and options for connecting to these devices in an upcoming update.
Since Windows XP in 2001, there has been a constant Bluetooth icon on the taskbar that would show you options like available devices, as well as a link to Bluetooth settings in Control Panel.
But with wireless devices more common than ever in 2022, Microsoft decided to simplify the process by replacing that 20-year-old method with a preview of the devices that are paired with your PC, without ever leaving the app or desktop.
It's yet another example of how the company makes things easier for Windows 11 users, but there's still work to be done in this area, with features that macOS users have had for years.
Analysis: from three clicks to one
Connecting to wireless devices has never been easier than connecting to a Wi-Fi network in Windows. Simply adding a Bluetooth section in Settings or Control Panel seemed pointless, especially with smartphones and Macs, reducing the process to two steps.
The Windows 11 taskbar has had a Quick Settings feature since its release in October 2021, so you can jump right into "Focus Mode," audio settings, and more, without leaving the app you're in. was currently. .
Since Bluetooth is also available on this panel, it will be very convenient for those who have multiple devices connected to their PC. This is being rolled out to users using Windows Insider build 2567 and higher. If you haven't signed up to be a Windows Insider to help test early versions of Windows 11, expect this new and improved Bluetooth feature to arrive later this year.
It should be worth the wait, especially if you have multiple game controllers or headsets, it can help ease the confusion to quickly see what's not connected and quickly fix it.
Having a battery status for each device will also go a long way in reminding users to recharge when needed.
However, much remains to be done in this area. Other features, like switching between noise-canceling modes and headphone EQ, could help a lot, similar to what Apple users have had on their Macs for a few years.
But it's still a great step in the right direction to get you started, and a much-needed feature in an era where many of us use Bluetooth devices almost every day for our PCs.
Via Windows Latest